Local men 'refused' prostate cancer tests by GP surgeries, charity screening reveals

Why it matters: A prostate screening event led by Cancer Support Suffolk tested 122 men for prostate cancer, with 11 returning abnormal PSA results, highlighting the importance of early detection.

The bigger picture: Prostate cancer is now the most common male cancer in the UK, causing 57,000 new cases and 13,000 deaths each year, according to the CHAPS charity, which supported the event.

What they're saying: "To see so many men turning up to our World Cancer Day event for a PSA test was a fantastic outcome for us, because anything we can do to make men more aware of their health status is a great thing," said Mark Murphy, CEO of Cancer Support Suffolk.

"Our collaboration with CHAPS has proven that there is a clear need for greater availability of testing, and certainly, with the results we have seen and the things we have heard from attendees about their personal experiences at GP surgeries, there are clearly more conversations to be had."

By the numbers:

• 122 men were tested at the Ipswich event

• 11 men returned abnormal PSA results

• 1 in 4 men with an abnormal PSA will have prostate cancer

• Prostate cancer causes 13,000 deaths annually in the UK

The details: Despite being the most common male cancer, there is currently no national NHS screening programme for prostate cancer.

Chris Booth, Clinical Director at CHAPS, said: "Prostate Cancer usually grows slowly and causes no symptoms till it has spread. That is why screening needs to be done before symptoms arise."

"As 1 in 4 men with an abnormal PSA will have Prostate Cancer, this event could potentially have saved three or four lives through early detection of this silent killer."

For context: The event was held at Ipswich's Venue 16 during February, coinciding with Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

The East Suffolk Prostate Cancer Support Group also participated, providing support and advice to attendees.

What's next: Cancer Support Suffolk plans to hold more similar events in the future.

"It's clear to all of us at the charity that events like ours are essential, so we'll certainly be returning with this event and other awareness activities like this, to ensure the message stays out there and that men get greater access to life-saving screening," Murphy said.

The bottom line: Early detection of prostate cancer significantly improves survival rates and outcomes, making screening initiatives crucial, especially when some men report difficulties accessing tests through conventional healthcare channels.